THE ROSCONN Group Stratford Boat Club Regatta proved to be a memorable occasion as crews from far and wide enjoyed some excellent racing on Saturday.
Competitors from Abingdon Rowing Club, Cardiff & Vale Schools Rowing Association, Evesham Rowing Club, Royal Grammar School Worcester, Warwick Boat Club, Monmouth Comprehensive School Boat Club, Northwich and Stratford’s sister club KES joined major entries from Stratford BC itself for a regatta split into three divisions.
There were 35 events and 135 separate races starting at 8am and running throughout the day until around 6pm.
Stratford’s regatta secretary Stephen Rose said: “This year we were so pleased to have Mencap Heart of England and St Basil’s as our nominated charities.
“Stratford Boat Club have an outreach in teaching customers of Mencap and other adaptive athletes how to scull and this was a natural extension for this outreach.
“We were very heartened by the huge turnout from local and distant clubs and the interest from the public. A massive thanks to all our sponsors, especially the Rosconn Group, hardworking Stratford Boat Club members, visiting crews, umpires and officials and especially the public for supporting the event.”
President Paul Stanton added: “It was a long day’s racing as 550 beefburgers, 45lb of sausages, 25lb of bacon, 20kg of sliced onions and 650 buns – all from local suppliers – were consumed as well as dozens of cakes and snacks.
“What a magnificent day topped by great racing! Based on our success of the last couple of years, we decided to stay with the shortened 650m course to ensure the safety of all competitors and river-users.
“We were especially grateful for the help and tolerance of those operators who work and make their living on the river.”
Treasurer Paul Hazelwood said: “Stratford Boat Club’s next event is the Fun Regatta on July 14 which is a much more ‘relaxed’ event with scratch teams from Stratford, Warwickshire and area companies and organisations.
“We give them three hours’ coaching, a boat and cox and organise a regatta for them! There are bound to be thrills and spills, so come and see the ‘other side’ of rowing!”
Whilst Stratford crews were competing hard at their own regatta, the senior crews went to the Masters British Championships at which Christine Goodwin won silver in her category whilst the men’s senior squad continued their training for Henley Royal Regatta.
